Election Reporting in Focus as Ojumu Releases Groundbreaking Book

By Iyojo Ameh

A new book highlighting the often-overlooked work and risks faced by Nigeria’s election correspondents will be officially launched on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Abuja.

The book, The INEC Press Corps: Chronicles of Nigeria’s Election Journalists, written by media consultant and Chairman of the INEC Press Corps, Segun Ojumu, documents the experiences of journalists who cover Nigeria’s elections from the frontline. It captures their challenges, sacrifices and the critical role they play in ensuring credible elections.

The launch is scheduled to hold at The Electoral Institute, the training and research arm of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The publication comes at a strategic time—shortly after the Anambra governorship election and ahead of key polls in 2026, including the FCT Area Council elections, and the Ekiti and Osun off-cycle governorship elections.

In a statement on Saturday, Ojumu said the book fills a long-standing gap in election reportage.

“For too long, the spotlight has focused solely on the umpire and the politicians. This book finally tells the story of the frontline correspondents who work tirelessly to ensure transparency and verifiable electoral outcomes, often at personal risk,” he said.

He emphasised that the book is anchored on two core themes: transparency and public trust. According to him, election journalists serve as the public’s “eyes and ears,” countering misinformation and strengthening confidence in the electoral process.

“The core of democracy is trust. Our work as journalists is fundamental to legitimising results and sustaining faith in the ballot box,” he added.

The event is expected to draw prominent stakeholders, including INEC Secretary Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Anthony Orianran, several National Commissioners, and the FCT Resident Electoral Commissioner, Aminu Idris.

Also expected are key political and civil society leaders such as Yusuf Dantalle of IPAC, Blessing Akinlosotu of NCSCN, Jake Epelle of TAF Africa, Dickson Akoh of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, and Isah Ismaila, Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor.

The new book is projected to serve as an important reference for journalists, researchers, policymakers and political actors seeking deeper insight into election reporting and its impact on Nigeria’s democratic development.